Living With Psoriatic Arthritis: 10 Things You Should Know

Psoriatic arthritis is common with people who suffer from skin psoriasis.  It is an inflammatory condition that affects the skin; ranging from mild to severe.  Genetics can be responsible for psoriatic arthritis conditions, especially those that do not suffer from the skin condition known as psoriasis.  In most cases, the cause of psoriatic arthritis cannot be determined especially if there are no known cases in the family.

It is difficult for people suffering from this disease.  They are faced with a lot of challenges. In this article, we will be discussing 10 ways to overcome these challenges.

1 – Exercise Can Help

Exercising can help with your suffering.  It helps reduce inflammation which, in turn, reduces  joint pain.

People who are suffering from this condition are at a higher risk of contracting heart disease and diabetes. Exercising is the best option to reduce this risk because it increases circulation of the blood and improves the cardiovascular system in the body.

You should be careful of the kind of exercise you choose.  Some exercises can cause adverse effects to the joints.  Exercises that are low impact on the joints are swimming, yoga, walking and cycling,

2 – Find a Support Group

It is important to get support from others.  This helps those suffering from this disease share their experiences and find encouragement in others stories.  Support groups provide counseling sessions and group therapy, providing an avenue for those suffering from the disease to get support.

3 – Stretching

Stretching is another way in which those that suffer from psoriatic arthritis can help themselves as a form of exercise and fitness.  This is helpful in keeping the joint limber, strong, reducing inflammation and swelling.  It is advisable, especially for beginners, to start at a very moderate and slow pace so as not to overstretch the joints.

4 – Applying Hot or Cold Packs to the Affected Joints

Another way those suffering from this disease can help themselves is by apply hot or cold packs to the affected area.  You can use hot packs on the swelling or sore parts, but if the heat is too much then apply cold packs.

When applying hot or cold packs, don’t continuously leave it on for too long.  This can cause a burn or frostbite.

5 – Modify Your Work Space

You should also take your workspace into consideration and make sure that it is comfortable for you to work.  Talk to your supervisor or the person in charge about making changes.

Some changes that can help are changing your seat position, your computer location, taking little breaks to take short to stretch joints,  and make sure to get help when lifting items; especially heavy loads.

6 – Try Tens Unit

This involves using electrical stimulation devices to manage pain levels by applying electrodes at the painful joints and adjusting the tolerance level.

This is believed to be one of the best ways to treat and manage psoriatic arthritis.  However, you should consult with your doctor before using it.

7 – Use Prescription Medication

In moderate to severe cases, your doctor will prescribe medication.  Because the disease is a chronic condition, the doctor will ensure to find medication that will improve you condition and make you comfortable.

The following drugs can be prescribed in treating psoriatic arthritis:

• Antidepressants
• Neurological medicine
• Topical creams containing Capsaicin.
• Biological Medication

There are other alternatives that can be recommended by doctors. Doctors usually work with alternative practitioners to find ways to reduce the pain of people suffering from psoriatic arthritis. This method might include acupuncture and other types of biological medication.

8 – Use Device

You may consider using a device that will make walking, climbing, and lifting yourself up easier.  Wheelchair and crutches can help movements, while the Installation of rails can aid in lifting and moving.

9 – Reduce Stress

Stress worsens symptoms of people who suffer from psoriatic arthritis.  This is why reducing stress as much as possible by participating in yoga, meditation and other activities is very important.

10 – Wear Good Shoes

Shoes can have an effect on your joints and can cause swelling and pain.  It is important that you wear shoes that are comfortable and leave space for your toes.